Our daily routines, though becoming slightly more normal, are still difficult to get used to. For many, adjusting to this “new normal” is still incredibly difficult. Understandably, this begins to affect people’s hygiene routines. While for some this can mean cutting back slightly with extensive beauty routines, for others, it can mean only taking a shower every few days. This can be attributed to the lack of need to get “done up,” or due to increased depression.
Taking a daily shower is, of course, depending on your skin type and routine. So long as you are using a hydrating body wash and body cream, though, a daily shower can do more good than harm. A daily shower can be beneficial for both your mind and body, giving you an overall boost that you might need. It can help give you the sense of routine you might be missing, especially if you set a designated time to shower.
Depending on your shower temperature, too, the water can have varying benefits. Taking a cold, or cool, shower can help treat depression, activating the sympathetic nervous system and increasing the release of norepinephrine. Warm water, on the other hand, can have a much more soothing effect, providing a calming sensation while also treating inflammation and lowering blood pressure.
If your productivity levels have been low, sitting in your pajamas and greasy hair likely won’t help. Give yourself a way to feel more motivated, enhancing your productivity by literally giving yourself a clean slate. Practicing good hygiene is crucial to your mental health, as you will feel much better about yourself when you are clean and fresh. You’ll have more energy, too, especially if you take a colder shower. This boost will fuel you through the day, or give you a good night’s rest, depending on the temperature.
A good shower can be extremely soothing, especially if you set the atmosphere. Rather than a task solely for hygiene, turn showering into an entire act of self-care. You can make this so by adding little touches to your bathroom like candles, flowers, eucalyptus, a waterproof speaker, a wine holder, and so much more. Whatever would make the experience more luxurious for you, do it. If you’ve been easily falling into funks throughout quarantine, a daily shower, or at least shower-related treatment, can do wonders for your mind, body, and soul. Experiment with different times, temperatures, and products until you find the best fit for you. Once you’ve found your groove, you can enjoy better skin, hair, sleep, moods, and other health benefits.
